Tax Day is a Call to Action: Expand the Child Tax Credit to Support Families

WASHINGTON – As Americans file their taxes today, Save the Children Action Network (SCAN) is reminding lawmakers to prioritize working families by strengthening two of the most impactful policies for children: the Child Tax Credit (CTC), and the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC). Together, these credits provide critical relief to families facing rising costs and economic uncertainty. 

The following is a statement from Christy Gleason, Executive Director of Save the Children Action Network:  

“Tax Day isn’t just a deadline—it’s a reminder of our values and priorities. At a time when families are struggling with rising costs, the Child Tax Credit and the Child and Dependent Tax Credit offer immediate, proven relief. Investing in America means investing in our children. Families can’t wait. Children can’t wait. On this Tax Day, let’s recommit to policies that put kids first.”

The CTC and the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) are two of the most effective tools to fight child poverty and help working families stay afloat. When the CTC was expanded during the pandemic, it cut child poverty nearly in half. The CDCTC helps parents afford the ever-growing cost of child care, which averaged more than $11,500 per child last year. But today both credits remain far too limited and exclude many of the families who need them most. 

As lawmakers negotiate a new tax package, they face a clear choice: continue to leave families behind, or act to ensure these proven tax credits are strengthened, expanded and made more accessible. This is a moment to show that children are a priority—not just in words, but in policy.